Update: High surf warning downgraded to advisory for north-facing shores of Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau

3:48 p.m. Jan. 16 update: A high surf warning for north-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau was downgraded to an advisory until 6 p.m. Thursday.

According to the National Weather Service, surf of 18-22 feet is expected and will decline overnight. It will then rebuild to 15 to 20 feet on Wednesday.

11:46 a.m. Jan. 16 update: Ocean Safety Bureau officials are advising no swimming or other ocean activities at Hanalei Bay and all north-facing shores due to hazardous ocean conditions and strong winds.

A high surf warning is currently in effect through 6 p.m. for north-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, according to the National Weather Service. A large long-period north-, north-west swell will peak today with dangerously large breaking waves of 20 to 25 feet.

Shorelines in these areas should also be avoided, as large breaking waves could make it dangerous for spectators and those standing near the water.

Beachgoers are urged to heed all posted warnings and advisories.

Original post: The National Weather Service has issued a high surf warning for north-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, which is currently in effect through 6 p.m. The warning may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.

A large long-period north-, north-west swell will peak today with dangerously large breaking waves of 20 to 25 feet.

Entering the water in these areas during the high surf warning is hazardous and could cause serious injury or death. Beachgoers are also advised to use extreme caution, as large breaking waves could make it dangerous for those standing along the shoreline.

For updated information on ocean and weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/hfo.

For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, please speak to a county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit www.hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

Original post: Surf will trend up Monday night along north- and west-facing shores as a small to moderate, medium-period northwest swell builds down the island chain, according to the National Weather Service.

As this swell peaks later Monday night, a more significant north-northwest swell is forecast to drive surf to advisory levels Tuesday as it peaks.

Surf is expected to build to 15 to 20 feet along the north-facing shores Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, from 6 a.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Thursday.

Impacts will be moderate. Strong breaking waves and strong currents will make swimming dangerous.